Introduction
The Haval H2 is a compact SUV that competes with models like the Nissan Kicks, Honda HR-V, and Hyundai Creta. This vehicle reminds me of my experience with the Haval H6, which was the first Chinese car to change my perception about the quality of Chinese vehicles. In this review, I will present the H2 in detail, exploring what it offers at a very competitive price of just AED 62,900.
Exterior Design
I would describe the design of the Haval H2 as traditional and simple, which is not a bad thing at all. The simplicity of the design gives the car a harmonious look from every angle. With the update in the 2020 model, the front grille has improved significantly. I appreciated how it resembles the Haval H6, and I liked that the H2 does not directly resemble any other well-known vehicle, which is often the case with many Chinese cars.
Exterior Design Details
Additionally, the Haval H2 boasts excellent exterior details for its price, including:
- LED headlights
- Daytime running lights
- Fog lights
- Metallic color on the front bumper
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Chrome trim around the windows
- Haval logo featured on the lights, wheels, and rear pillar
- Metallic shape under the rear bumper
- Faux large exhaust outlets
Interior Cabin
While the interior of the Haval H2 may not compare to the distinctive cabin of the Haval H6, it is honestly excellent for a vehicle priced at AED 62,900. With a simple and user-friendly design, leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and piano black plastic accents in the center, along with soft-touch materials covering most areas of the cabin, it's a level of quality not often seen in vehicles of this price range.
Everything in the cabin conveys a high manufacturing quality. Just like many Chinese cars before it, the H2 makes me reconsider what we pay to receive such quality from well-known manufacturers.
Features and Amenities
In terms of features, it is also very good. With the H2, you get the following at this price:
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Power-adjustable driver's seat
- Touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Rear parking camera with sensors
- Automatic climate control
- Electronic parking brake with auto hold feature
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Cruise control
- Panoramic sunroof
In the rear seats, the space is good compared to vehicles in this class, which might be attributed to the upright roof shape. However, the H2, compared to its competitors, lacks air conditioning vents for the rear seats, and its trunk size is smaller than its rivals.
Performance and Engine
The Haval H2 is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, producing 148 horsepower and 210 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. There are also three driving modes:
- Eco (fuel-saving)
- Normal (standard mode)
- Snow (for snowy conditions)
However, once we start driving, a problem becomes apparent.
The issue isn't with the engine numbers; in fact, these figures are comparable, if not superior, to some competitors in this class. The problem lies in the peak torque being available at 4500 RPM. This is due to a noticeable turbo lag, which means there is a delay between your request for power when pressing the accelerator and receiving the torque and power you requested. This is particularly evident in certain driving scenarios, such as merging onto a main road from a side street or entering a roundabout quickly.
Noise insulation and suspension are what you would expect from vehicles in this class. Once you acclimate to the turbo lag, driving the H2 in the city becomes very comfortable. Handling is easy with its light steering, visibility is clear especially with the elevated driver's seat and relatively thin pillars, and the large side mirrors enhance the view.
Conclusion
Priced at AED 62,900, the Haval H2 with its 2020 update is an excellent economic option in this segment. However, like many new Chinese brands, it still lacks consumer trust built over years of use. Therefore, the dealer in the UAE offers with this price free registration, a 5-year or 100,000 km warranty, free maintenance for 3 years or 50,000 km, and free roadside assistance for 3 years.
